Table of Contents
REQUIREMENTS #
- Pen
- Observation chart
- Breast watch or appropriate timer
STEPS #
- Establish rapport with the patient (Refer to steps)
- Explain procedure to patient (Refer to steps)
- Assist patient into an appropriate resting position
- Place first three fingers of one hand on the anterior aspect of patient forearm just above the base of the thumb
- Feel the pulsations of the radial artery
- With the aid of an appropriate timer count for a full minute
- Concentrate on the beats of the pulse when counting rather than the timer
- Note the rhythm, volume and tension of the pulse
- Record the pulse on the observation chart
- Perform hand hygiene
- Assist patient to return to a desirable position
- Discuss findings with patient and report any abnormalities detected to appropriate officer